Turkey has banned all international flights, and intercity travel will be subject to the permission of governors, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced in an address to the nation on Friday night, strengthening the measures against the global coronavirus outbreak.
Erdoğan announced eight measures in total, including operation of private businesses with minimal personnel; staggered seating on public transport; weekend closure of picnic places, forests and other sites; discharge of military members who were doing compulsory service under a strict 14-day quarantine rule; and establishment of a pandemic committee in every province under the supervision of the governors.
The Turkish president addressed the public after a meeting with the scientific board assisting the health ministry.
As of Friday, Turkey had 5,698 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 92 deaths.
“In order to overcome this crisis, we’re in a position to make more sacrifices,” Erdoğan said.
Bringing to mind the $100 billion financial support announced last week, Erdoğan also said the government would provide 2 million families in poverty with TL 1,000 ($150) each.
Turkey has a sufficient number of intensive care units, and tests are completely free, he added.
The measures will be strictly enforced by the government, especially in the 30 largest cities.